Humanitarian communications refer to exchanging information, messages, and ideas between organizations and individuals involved in humanitarian work. The goal is to raise awareness, inform and educate people about humanitarian issues and activities, and promote collaboration and cooperation among different actors to alleviate suffering and improve the lives of vulnerable people affected by crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, or pandemics.
Humanitarian communications use various channels and tools, such as social media, radio, television, newsletters, reports, and meetings, to disseminate information, engage with affected communities, and advocate for communities’ needs and rights.
The ultimate aim of humanitarian communications is to foster empathy, compassion, and solidarity, encouraging people to take action to support humanitarian efforts.
Examples of humanitarian communications
Below are examples of humanitarian communications published by diaspora humanitarian organizations and humanitarian research institutes on different media:
- Situation report by Shabaka: Situation Reports – Shabaka
- Press release by American Relief Coalition for Syria (ARCS): Türkiye and Syria Earthquake: A Reflection on the Humanitarian Response Amid the 12th Year Anniversary // 32 NGO leaders are calling on the Security Council to renew the Syria cross-border resolution for a period of 12 months
- Public statement by Better Health for Africa on the Sudan conflict: SUDAN CONFLICT – BH4A STATEMENT (1).pdf
- Policy Brief GPO
- Recognising diaspora humanitarianism | DIIS
Key Resources And Templates
Talking Points For Meetings About A Humanitarian Situation
Overview of the crisis: Begin by providing a summary, including the current situation on the ground, the scale of the crisis, and the affected population.
Causes of the crisis: Briefly outline the root causes of the crisis, including any political, economic, or environmental factors that may have contributed to the situation.
Immediate needs/recommended action: Highlight the immediate needs of the affected population, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care. This is the core of the meeting; have no more than two or three key messages or actions you are highlighting.
Response efforts: Provide an overview of the response efforts to date, including any government, NGO, or UN-led relief efforts underway.
Challenges and obstacles: Discuss any challenges or obstacles hindering relief efforts, such as access to affected areas, security concerns, or lack of funding.
Long-term solutions: Talk about long-term solutions that can help address the root causes of the crisis, such as political or economic reforms, environmental conservation efforts, or community-based development initiatives.
Call to action: End by highlighting the importance of immediate action to address the crisis and urge participants to consider how they can contribute to relief efforts or advocate for long-term solutions.
